Saudi Arabia Visa for Indians: Requirements, Fees & Application Guide (2026)

Saudi Arabia, located in the heart of the Middle East, is a land of vast deserts, modern cities, and deep religious heritage. With the launch of Vision 2030, the country has become a major hub for global tourism. Indian travellers can fly directly to cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, or Dammam from major Indian hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad in about 4–6 hours. While luxury is easy to find, mid-budget travellers can also explore the Kingdom comfortably. Depending on your eligibility, you can opt for an online Saudi Arabia tourist visa (e-Visa) or a traditional sticker visa. 

Planning a budget is the first step toward a stress-free holiday. Here is a tentative breakdown of expenses for Indians travelling to Saudi Arabia:

Disclaimer: The costs mentioned above are indicative and subject to change based on seasonal demand, currency fluctuations, and individual lifestyle choices. It is recommended to check the latest exchange rates and service prices before finalising your travel budget.

Indian citizens have multiple options depending on their travel history and residency:

• Standard Tourist Visa (Sticker): Applied through authorised visa centres (VFS Tasheer) in India. Valid for one year with multiple entries.
  
  
• e-Visa: A digital Saudi visa available to Indians who hold a valid tourist or business visa from the US, UK, or Schengen area (provided it has been used at least once).
  
  
• Transit Visa: Valid for 96 hours, ideal for those flying via Saudia or Flynas with a short stopover.
  
  
• Family Visit Visa: For those visiting immediate family members residing in Saudi Arabia.

To apply for a Saudi Arabia visa for Indian citizens, you must meet these basic conditions:

• Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old (minors require a guardian).
• Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay.
• Financial Proof: Evidence of sufficient funds (bank statements) to cover the trip.
• Insurance: Valid COVID-19/Travel health insurance from an approved Saudi provider (usually bundled with the visa fee).
• Entry Restrictions: No previous violations of Saudi immigration laws.

The Saudi Arabia visa for indian application follows a clear digital and physical path:

1. Determine Your Visa Pathway

Check if you qualify for an e-Visa (via a US/UK/Schengen visa) or if you need to apply for a regular sticker visa through the VFS Tasheer centre.

2. Complete the Online Application

Visit the official Saudi MOFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs) portal or the e-Visa website. Fill in your personal, passport, and travel details.

3. Book a VFS Appointment

For sticker visas, you must book an appointment at a VFS Tasheer centre in India (located in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kochi, etc.) for biometric submission.

4. Pay the Fees

Pay the Saudi Arabia visa fee and the mandatory insurance premium online or at the application centre.

5. Submit Documents and Biometrics

Attend your appointment to submit your physical passport and provide finger scans.

6. Track and Collect

Use the reference number to track your application. Once approved, your passport will be returned via courier with the visa stamped.

To ensure your Saudi Arabia travel visa is approved, keep these documents ready:

• Original passport with at least two blank pages.

• Two recent passport-sized photographs (white background, 2x2 inches).

• Confirmed return flight tickets.

• Proof of accommodation (Hotel booking or invitation letter).

• Last 6 months' personal bank statements with a bank stamp.

• Salary slips or an employment letter (for professionals).

• Business registration proof (for self-employed).

Travel expenses in the Gulf can add up quickly. Using financial tools wisely can help you manage your cash flow.

• Travel Loan: Many Indian banks and NBFCs offer personal loans for travel. This is a great way to fund your Saudi Arabia visa costs and luxury stays in Riyadh without using your emergency savings. You can repay the amount in monthly EMIs.
  
  
• Credit Cards: Use a credit card for flight and hotel bookings to earn reward points. Look for cards with low forex markup to save on transactions in Saudi Riyals (SAR).
  
  
• Travel Insurance: Never skip this. While basic insurance is part of the visa, a comprehensive plan covers trip cancellations, lost baggage, and medical emergencies beyond what the basic policy offers.

Saudi Arabia is a destination where deep-rooted history and futuristic vision coexist, providing plenty of options for every type of traveller, such as:

Riyadh

The capital city where traditional forts meet towering skyscrapers like the Kingdom Centre. Visit the Masmak Fortress to learn about the kingdom’s unification or enjoy world-class dining and luxury retail at the Riyadh Season zones.

Jeddah

A vibrant port city on the Red Sea, famous for its historic Al-Balad district and luxury waterfront. Walk through the UNESCO-listed coral stone houses in the old town before heading to the Jeddah Corniche to see the world's tallest fountain.

AlUla

An ancient oasis featuring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hegra, with stunning rock-cut tombs. Beyond the Nabataean history, you can experience the Elephant Rock at sunset and explore the mirror-clad Maraya building, the largest of its kind.

Medina

One of the holiest cities, accessible to tourists for sightseeing (note: the interior of the Prophet's Mosque is for Muslims only). Take the high-speed Haramain train from Jeddah to experience the city’s peaceful atmosphere and visit the historic Quba Mosque, the first mosque in Islam.

Abha

Located in the mountains, offering cool weather, cable car rides, and the beautiful Asir National Park. Explore the colourful "hanging village" of Al Habala and enjoy a unique climate that is significantly cooler than the rest of the country.

The Saudi Arabia visa fee for a tourist visa is approximately SAR 300 (₹6,700 approx.), plus insurance and service charges, bringing the total to roughly ₹13,000 – ₹16,000 depending on the exchange rate.

Processing time is as follows:

• e-Visa: Usually processed within 24–72 hours.

• Sticker Visa: Takes about 5–10 working days after biometric submission.

Securing a Saudi Arabia visa is now more accessible than ever for Indian citizens. By preparing your documents in advance and choosing the right visa type, you can explore the rich culture and modern wonders of the Kingdom. Ensure you plan your finances early using travel loans or credit cards to keep your journey smooth and enjoyable.